Ge vernova & afry forge alliance to supercharge swedish small reactor market
The nuclear landscape is shifting, and Sweden is poised to lead the charge. GE Vernova Hitachi (GVH) and engineering firm AFRY have joined forces to accelerate the deployment of GVH’s innovative BWRX-300 small modular reactor Technology within the country.
A strategic partnership for european energy
This non-exclusive collaboration, outlined this week, leverages AFRY’s extensive European network and sector expertise – a criticalasset as the SMR market expands rapidly. The aim? To forge a robust, localized industrial ecosystem around the BWRX-300, extending beyond reactor design to encompass long-term collaboration and regional value creation. Jason Cooper, CEO of GVH, emphasized this isn’t simply about selling a reactor; it’s about building a sustainable, domestic capability.
Boosting swedish industrial strength
“Sweden’s strong industrial base and world-class engineering capabilities make it the ideal partner,” Cooper stated. “By working alongside AFRY, we’re not just delivering the BWRX-300; we’re empowering Swedish industry to play a pivotal role in Europe’s energy transition.” The agreement promises to unlock opportunities for Swedish businesses, directly impacting the nation’s manufacturing sector.
Technical details & global momentum
The BWRX-300, a 300-MW SMR featuring a simplified configuration, is already seeing traction – with construction underway at Ontario Power Generation’s Darlington site, slated for completion by the end of the decade, potentially establishing it as the world’s first SMR.
Regulatory approval & international expansion
Meanwhile, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission is reviewing an application for the BWRX-300 at Tennessee Valley Authority’s Clinch River site. GVH’s Nuclear energy business, backed by Hitachi, provides fuel bundles and advanced reactor designs, including boiling water reactors and SMRs. Elon Hägg, EVP at AFRY, highlighted the potential: “This collaboration connects local expertise with international reach and supports the delivery of reliable, low-carbon energy solutions.”
A collaborative path forward
AFRY will provide critical engineering and advisory services throughout the BWRX-300 deployment process, including application support for the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority. Linda Pålsson, CEO of AFRY, underscored the strategic importance of this partnership, stating it’s “aiming to help position Sweden as a key hub…as well as advancing Sweden’s nuclear power program.” The combined expertise of GVH and AFRY promises a streamlined, scalable deployment strategy across Europe.